Why Some Schools Raise $75,000+ While Others Struggle to Hit $5K

Here’s a number that might surprise you:

👉 35% of schools raise less than $5,000 a year through fundraising. Meanwhile, 27.1% of schools are pulling in over $75,000 annually.

Same school system. Same communities. Very different results.

So what gives? Why are some schools crushing their fundraising goals while others are stuck spinning their wheels?

The difference isn’t luck—it’s strategy.

Schools that raise less than $5,000 often rely on one or two big fundraisers a year. They sell the same overused items year after year—wrapping paper, candy bars, candles. Volunteers get burned out. Families feel pressured. Supporters buy once out of guilt, then avoid the next round.

Now look at the schools raising $75K+. These schools treat fundraising like a well-run business. They offer products that people already buy (like coffee), keep things simple with online ordering, and run campaigns more than once a year—without exhausting anyone. Their fundraisers feel fun and valuable, not like another obligation.

So… where does coffee fit in?

Right here. Coffee is one of the easiest, most consistent ways to boost fundraising results. People drink it every day. They want to buy it. It runs out, so they come back for more. And best of all, it’s something supporters can feel good about purchasing.

At Cheerful Bean, we help schools sell locally roasted coffee with custom labels, easy ordering, and up to 45% profit per sale. It's a low-stress, high-reward way to fundraise that supporters actually enjoy.

You don’t have to stay stuck in the $5K crowd. With the right product and a simple system, your school could be part of the $75K+ club.